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Domata Peko evolved into one of the core figures among the Bengals' leadership group during his eight years in Cincinnati. Having agreed to an extension with the club Wednesday, he could hold that at least three years longer.

Peko's contract was due to expire at the end of next season and he officially has signed a two-year extension locking him in through the 2016 season.

He has made 108 starts, including all 17 games last season. He ranked second on the defensive line with 72 tackles and recorded a career-high three sacks last year. Peko has led the line in tackles four of the last six seasons.

"Domata has been a significant and productive player for our defense for many years now, and we are excited to extend his time here even longer," Marvin Lewis said. "He is a leader among our veterans and a mentor for our younger players, and securing his future as a Bengal through the next three seasons is another positive step in continuing to improve our team."

A fourth-round pick out of Michigan State in 2006, the last time Peko missed a start came in 2009. His 67 consecutive games started leads the team.

He had one year at $4.3 million left on his previous contract, a five-year, $27.8 million extension inked in 2008.

The core of the defensive line has been secured for the foreseeable future. Geno Atkins signed a five-year, $55 million extension last year and Carlos Dunlap added a six-year, $40 million extension. Both are locked up through the 2018 season.